Deutsche Bahn wins approval to operate through Channel Tunnel

Deutsche Bahn (DB) has been given approval to run trains through the Channel Tunnel, opening up the opportunity of direct high-speed services between the UK and Germany.

The Intergovernmental Commission has granted DB an operating certificate following a three-year study.

Eurotunnel said in a statement that only ‘adjustments to the timetable and modifications to the paths through the Tunnel’ would be needed to accomodate the new trains.

In 2010, DB carried out a trial run of an ICE train through the tunnel to St Pancras International.

DB has indicated that it is aiming to begin operating high-speed services between Frankfurt and London by 2014.

Jacques Gounon, chairman and chief executive officer of Groupe Eurotunnel SA, said: “Twenty years after the start of commercial services, the authorities have finally opened the Channel Tunnel to all.

“This is wonderful news for the millions of passengers in northern Europe who can now use this most environmentally friendly means of transport to travel to London.”




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